Context and continuity: A research of the cross-inscribed slabs and related monuments of Inishmurray Island

Lara Byrne
Trinity College Dublin
Department of History of Art and Architecture
2001
BA

Subject: Sculpture
Country: Ireland
Period: Early Christian Ireland

10,000 words

This dissertation though it has a particularly archaeological flavour, uses an interdisciplinary approach to reconstruct the settlement patterns of Inishmurray Island off the coast of Co. Sligo. The author uses the cross-inscribed slabs and other monuments on the island to examine the history of the island and its settlement pattern. The main issue that the dissertation addresses is the question of when the island was deserted.The author questions the remark made by scholars such as Francoise Henry and St. Joseph that the island was deserted after Vikings invaded in 807AD and not reinhabited until the later medieval period. By using the dating of the cross-inscribed slabs the author argues for the continuity of settlement on the island. Chapters include a site description and outline of the historical background of the island and an analysis of the various artefacts found on and connected with the site.

Irish Georgian Society

Education Theses Register

Context and continuity: A research of the cross-inscribed slabs and related monuments of Inishmurray Island